Will cuddled up to Emma as their 6am alarm beeped to announce it was time to get up. She had retreated into her shell since yesterday afternoon, barely speaking, her mind in overdrive after being told they had found someone to replace her. And why not? After all, she was the one who put in her resignation, the one who was to move away with her husband and become a dental assistant. The school couldn't be without a Guidance Counsellor. They had to find someone. But so quickly?

Emma knew she was pretty damn good at her job. The thought of being replaced, having a strange person sitting at her desk, their fingerprints marking her bookshelf and desk made for an unpleasant night's sleep. She knew that in reality, she was nothing more than a drop of water in a bucket; everyone was when it came to being an employee at any business in the world. There may be a slight wave in the bucket when someone new takes over, but in the end, everyone could be replaced.

Just thinking about her replacement gave her chills. She could be a hard-nosed tall schoolmarm with a crotchety voice and little compassion. Or even a young up-and-comer with a Blackberry, corporate clothes and personal trainer boyfriend. Or maybe she would be pretty, prettier than Emma and not have OCD and brush up against Will accidentally on purpose, causing Will to fall head over heels with her and forget all about Emma. What if this person was better than her and the students liked her more? That frightened Emma the most.

"Hey sweetie, how are you feeling?" Will kissed her cheek. The night wasn't a pleasant one for him either. He bore the brunt of a tossing and turning Emma; he had no idea she could get so… aggressive while asleep. Will's shin and manhood took most of the impact. He almost considered sleeping on the couch but if she turned to him for comfort and all she felt was an empty space, it would make her more upset.

"I, uhm, don't feel so well. Had a bad dream." Emma rubbed her eyes and yawned.

"Hm. I had a 'feeling' you may have." He winced. "You can tell me all about it a little later if you like. Why don't you have a shower, I'll make breakfast and then we can go and get your job back. Sound good?"

"Sounds good." She smiled at him.

"Good. I'll see you in the kitchen in a few minutes." Will rolled out of bed and stretched, scratching his chest. As he left, Emma got out of bed and headed for the bathroom. She rid herself of her nightie and turned the taps on, allowing the water to heat up to the perfect temperature. The water was beautiful and soothing; she washed away the bad dream, the nervousness of today's meeting and concentrated on Will. She could already feel his hand in hers, keeping her safe.

Will had breakfast waiting for Emma when she walked into the kitchen. She sat down at the table, wearing her spotted green Anthropologie skirt and a matching green blouse. Pouring herself a glass of orange juice, she shook her head when Will gave her a plate with two waffles.

"I'm not really hungry."

"You need your strength for today. Come on, eat."

"As corny as this sounds Will, you're my strength."

"Oh Em," Will replied, massaging her shoulders, "you're my strength too." He kissed the top of her head. "Now, eat."

Emma picked at the waffles, adding strawberries and maple syrup. She gulped down the glass of orange juice, dabbing her lips with a serviette. Will watched her eat. He was quite worried about the meeting today, maybe even more so than Emma. He hated seeing her upset; she had already been through enough over the last couple of weeks, it would surely break her if all didn't go to plan.

"You better get ready if we're to meet Figgins at 8," Emma said.

Will looked at the time. They would have to hurry to beat the traffic and pick up a tall latte for Figgins. "Alright Em, I'll be back in a little while." He placed his plate and glass in the sink. As he turned back around, he noticed Emma was clearly struggling.

"Hey, it'll be alright."

"I'm trying not to think about it, but it's hard."

"Just remember," Will said, taking her hand in his, "I'll be there with you, holding your hand."

"You're the greatest." Emma smiled and kissed him.

Emma stood up and cleared the table, then washed the dishes. She scrubbed and scrubbed the plates, ensuring to remove any trace of food and then did the same for the glasses. She held each glass up to the light, checking for streaks and any erroneous marks.

Ten minutes later, Emma was still at the sink, rewashing everything again. She couldn't seem to get them clean enough. Her hands were aching through the dishwashing gloves. Will saw her leaning over the sink, arms moving in a furious, circular motion. His heart went out to her.

"Em, sweetie, please, not now, we have to go," Will soothed, removing her hands from the soapy water. He took her gloves off and guided her away from the sink.

She shook her head. "They're not clean, they're not clean…"

"I had a look and they are clean, Em. You did a good job on them, better than I could ever do. But we have to meet Figgins now. We'll be late otherwise."

Will had decided that Emma should make an appointment with a therapist today. The internalisation of her worries and stress were only making her OCD worse. He loved her too much to see her suffer like this.

"I didn't mean to, I mean…"

"You're nervous about today. I understand completely." He handed Emma her handbag, kissing her cheek, and locked the apartment. They headed down to the basement to Will's car and they drove to school, stopping at a takeaway coffee house.

Emma kept quiet the entire journey to McKinley High. Will tried to initiate conversation, even asking about her bad dream, but they were all one-sided. Even trying to lighten the mood by telling a few bad jokes didn't help. Eventually, he gave up and turned the radio on to have some sort of noise outside of the odd rattle under the hood. As they approached the school, Emma felt a million butterflies going crazy in her stomach. Will parked the car in his usual spot. He put the handbrake on and turned to Emma.

"Em, talk to me please."

"I'm so ashamed of myself." She rested her forehead on her hand, letting out an exasperated sigh.

"You have nothing to be ashamed of. Nothing, you hear me?"

"I'll call a therapist today. You'll still come with me?"

"Yes, I will. I'm proud of you. Ready?"

"Uh-huh."

"Good. Let's go."

Will and Emma got out of the car, carrying the coffees. Emma found his free hand and interlocked their fingers. Will lifted their hands to his lips and kissed hers, squeezing it extra tight. Together they walked through the car park and into the hallways of McKinley High, straight towards the Principal's office.

A few students were milling about the hallways, clashing lockers, throwing paper at each other, the usual morning antics before class began. There were a few odd looks too. Practically the entire student body knew that Emma was leaving. And seeing her this morning… they couldn't help by wonder why she was still here, with Mr Schuester.

Emma held her head high as she entered Figgins' office. He was sitting there, going through student files, when he stood and greeted the duo. Will plonked the desired tall latte down on the desk, the collision of cardboard and timber making a hollow sound. "Here's your latte."

"Well good morning, Emma, Will. Thank you." Figgins took the cup in hand, sipping the hot liquid. "Just perfect. I can always rely on Starbucks to be spot on with the taste of their latte. Sit down guys," he gestured to the square blue chairs in front of his desk. "Okay. Begin."

"Um, Principal Figgins, I would really, really like to return to McKinley High. Uh, I know you have found someone else, but I was hoping that you would be able to reinstate me as Guidance Counsellor." Emma drew a sharp breath, already knowing the answer would be a resounding no.

The McKinley High principal pursed his lips.

"There's been a change of circumstances, Figgins. Surely you can appreciate that. Emma wouldn't have resigned had she not been moving to Seattle." Will could foresee this would be a never-ending battle, especially when falling upon deaf ears.

"Miss Pillsbury put her resignation in and we have already hired someone. It wouldn't be fair to them to withdraw our offer of appointment, which has been accepted and processed." The bland Indian accent was firm but reasonable. Figgins did have a soft spot for Emma, but had to abide by the rules.

Will began to argue. "I don't get it. You hadn't found anyone on the Friday, how did you hire someone so quickly? And where is she? I thought we were going to meet her."

Before Figgins could answer, Will saw something move out of the corner of his eye. He turned to his left, startled at the person who happened to creep in the office without a sound. "Wait… why is Sue Sylvester here?"

"Oh my god." Emma covered her eyes.

"You hired Sue to be the school's guidance counsellor?" He pointed at her, his body filling with anger about his boss's decision.

"Yes, William, I am the new guidance counsellor." Her overly-confident, sly voice froze the air. "Hi Edna. Nice to see you've left your doctor husband for someone with better prospects."

"What on earth were you thinking?" Will directed to Figgins, who kept his mouth decidedly shut. There must be some underlying reason. Sue must be blackmailing him, Will thought.

Emma, slightly piqued, bit the inside of her mouth. "Sue, you push students into lockers."

"They push me first." The reply came without hesitation.

"You encourage them to indoor ski down the stairs during winter."

"That's never been proven."

"Well, please Sue, enlighten me, what advice are you going to give them?" Emma wasn't into playing games.

"That life is tough. You gotta push yourself to the limit if you want to get anywhere in life. Like I tell my Cheerios, you don't get to the top of the pyramid without stepping on a few people."

Figgins flapped his hands. "Sue. Sit down please." She sat next to Will and crossed her legs, adjusting her signature red tracksuit.

"How is Sue going to handle Cheerios, teaching and guidance counselling? I'd hate to see the Cheerios lose their national competition this year. You'd probably get your funding cut back if they did. Which means… more money for the Glee Club. Gee, Em, might be best for all of us if Sue does take on more responsibilities."

Emma gave him an 'are you crazy?' look, and Will winked at her. She may have not been into playing games, but Will certainly was, especially when Sue had nothing to say but admit defeat.

"Don't doubt the prowess of one Sue Sylvester, Epstein."

Will rolled his eyes at another comment about his curly hair. "This is totally unfair. You've got a perfectly well-educated guidance counsellor right here in front of you who wants her job back and you're giving it away to a person who doesn't have a vein of emotion in her body."

"My hands are tied, Will."

"They always are, Figgins. What does she have on you?"

Sue butted in. "Will I am shocked by that comment. Do you really think I would resort to blackmail to gain a better position in this school?"

"Yes."

"That just says it all, doesn't it? You've been against me from day one."

"Sue, if you had any decency, you'd let Emma return to a job that she loves and the students she cares about so much." Will reached for Emma's hand, holding it tight.

"The answer is no." Sue refused to budge.

Emma, who had remained silent while Will and Sue argued, finally spoke up. "Is there anything else I can do to remain on staff? I'll do anything. Please."

"No, Em, we've come here to get your job back, not settle for anything else."

"It looks like Sue's not going to let it go and I need to start earning money again. Really Will, I don't mind," she reasoned. "It'll occupy my time and stop me from thinking about…other things."

Figgins cut in. "We don't have any vacancies. Not until closer to the new school year."

Disheartened, Emma spoke a solitary word. "Oh."

"Sorry, Emma."

"Um, that's okay, um, Will, I think I better g-go home." She stood, sniffling. "Th-thank you anyway." Emma sadly smiled. She had never felt so lost in her life.

Will placed a supportive hand on her shoulder. "I can't believe you two. Actually, you know what? I can." With a guiding hand, he led Emma from Figgins' office, disappointed.

He stopped and turned around. "Oh, Emma's coming to Nationals with me to chaperone. And the school's paying. End of story."

Figgins drank his latte and gave a sharp nod, accepting his proposition.

Emma and Will walked to Will's classroom. The school had come alive with students, the hallways now resembling a bustling train station. He sat Emma down in his seat and fetched a glass of water. Classes would be starting soon.

"I don't want to leave you today, Em." He crouched next to her, stroking her hair. She sipped on the water and closed her eyes. The build-up and subsequent let down of returning to her job left Emma feeling deflated.

"You have school. I'll be okay." She put the glass on his desk. "May I use your car? I'll run some errands and pick you up after Glee club." Emma's brave face was not convincing Will. She was not okay.

"I'll take the day off and stay with you."

"No Will. I'll be okay, really. Besides, someone needs to work. And I'll have dinner cooked so you won't have to worry."

"It's not dinner I'm worried about. It's you. I'm so, so sorry about the outcome of the meeting. I'm disgusted with Sue and Principal Figgins. I'd walk out and quit in protest if I could, but Glee club, the kids, I can't let them down."

"I know you would if you could. That makes me feel so loved." Emma hugged him; the tears that she had forced back now breaking their banks, flowing freely down her face.

"Oh Em, I feel like I've failed you." There was a pain in his heart that ached for Emma's happiness. He loved her completely, and seeing her like this broke him to pieces.

Emma kissed his lips tenderly, reassuring him that that was not the case. "You haven't."

Will took a tissue off his desk and dabbed away her tears. "I promise you, we'll get through this and you'll be back at McKinley real soon." He kissed the corner of her mouth, leaving a lingering vow on her soft skin.

"Don't promise. Promises can be broken. And I'm broken enough. I-I better go before your class starts." Emma felt Will's pants for his car keys, fishing them from his left pocket. She wasn't just talking about work anymore. It was much deeper than that.

He looked into her eyes; although they were red, their beauty and richness shone through. You won't be broken forever, Emma. Their goodbye kiss, intense yet brimming with sweetness, was interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Mr Schue, Mr Schue, I want to run by a few things with you before…oh…" Rachel Berry stopped when she noticed female hands around Mr Schuester's waist. "I-I'm sorry."

With his back to her, Will said, "It's okay, Rachel." He kissed Emma's forehead and turned around, showing Rachel who he was kissing. Emma clung to his shoulder and waist, a little apprehensive now that a student had found out.

"M-M-Miss Pillsbury…I…I…oh wow." She hugged her books tighter, a wide grin spreading over her face.

"Can we keep this between us for now?" Will asked. "We need some privacy until things are settled."

"You took my advice, I'm so happy for you Mr Schue. And Miss Pillsbury. Don't worry, I won't tell a soul." Still grinning, Rachel couldn't help but think her words to Mr Schuester had brought him and Miss Pillsbury together.

"Advice?" Emma quizzed.

Rachel voice lilted as she hummed. "Did you sing, Mr Schue?"

Will kissed Emma's hand, smiling. "Yes."

"Oh," Rachel cooed, her own insides melting from the love she could see between the two teachers.

"I think I'm missing something here," Emma stated, drying her eyes, a little confused.

"I'll explain everything tonight Em. See you this afternoon." He whispered in her ear, "Love you more than anything."

Emma squeezed his hand and left the classroom, giving him one last glance as she turned the corner.

"I didn't mean to interrupt Mr Schue, but I wanted to run a few lyric ideas by you before Glee this afternoon."

"It's going to have to wait until then, Rachel; I've got a lot on my mind this morning, with E-Emma and…stuff."

Rachel nodded. "Well, okay, I'll see you in Spanish class a little later today. Uh…I really am happy for you both. You deserve someone like her. Miss Pillsbury is really nice."

"She is. Thank you Rachel."

As the students entered his class for homeroom, Will was distracted by all things Emma. A single word, discussion about Prom, anything, Will could relate back to the weekend he and Emma had. He had to concentrate on the school day though. Tonight he would concentrate on Emma.

At lunchtime, he wondered how her day was going. He really wished he had taken the day off and spent it with her; he should have been more adamant about it. Or at least organised to meet Emma for lunch instead of eating alone in his classroom. He was afraid if he saw Sue or Figgins he'd do something bad enough to get him fired. And that would be no good for anyone.

After kissing Will goodbye, Emma kept her head low and darted out to the car park before anyone took a second glance at her. She thought she heard a few voices call her name, but she ignored them. Emma was in no mood to talk; her future employment at McKinley High was non-existent until possibly after summer vacation – and even then there was no guarantee. She got her hopes up. Really and truly. She had no one to blame but herself for the way she was feeling right now. Sue being a Guidance Counsellor was the icing on the cake. Emma's feelings of helplessness and self-doubt were now overshadowed by anger and sadness. It made the drive back to Will's apartment difficult, her tears blurring the view.

She returned to Will's place and picked up their clothes for dry cleaning. As she was about to close the door, her eyes caught sight of the Yellow Pages. Putting the clothes down, she let her fingers do the walking for a therapist.

"Dr Caldwell's office." The voice at the other end of the phone was cheerful.

"Um, hello, my name is Emma Pillsbury. I'd like to make an appointment with Dr Caldwell, this week or even today if possible?" Emma's hand was shaking as she spoke into the phone.

"You're a new client?"

"Yes."

"We don't have any free time today, but 1pm tomorrow is available. Is that time suitable?" The receptionist asked.

"That would be lovely," Emma replied.

"Great. I'll slot you in there. Emma Pil-?

"Pillsbury."

"Pillsbury. Got it. If you'd like to get here 15 minutes before your appointment, we have some paperwork for you to fill out."

"Okay, sure."

"We'll see you tomorrow at one, Emma. Thank you."

"Bye." Emma hung up the phone and exhaled. She hoped that Will would be able to come with her, even for just a few minutes. She had made the first step. And she was happy about it. If she had this part of her life under control, the rest would follow. That she was certain of.

Will walked past Emma's old office on the way to class. The unsightly vision of Sue Sylvester with her feet up on the desk, already taking over, made Will cringe. He remembered when walking past Emma's office in earlier days was an absolute necessity for him, regardless whether he had to or not. Will would slow down and pretend to look at the bulletin board in the hallway, desperate to catch her attention, to see her face light up when she saw him. When she did, his heart would skip a beat. Emma would always wave, twinkling her fingers at him. If she wasn't busy, he'd hang off the doorframe and talk about something – anything – to engage her for a few minutes. And for those few minutes, he was in Emma heaven. Her office was always warm and inviting, friendly.

And now, he couldn't bear to look inside.

After dropping the clothes off at the dry cleaners, Emma stopped by the local supermarket and picked up a few groceries for dinner. She wandered up and down the aisles, not really looking at anything, scattered thoughts of one person piercing her mind.

Carl. Emma was going to have to call him sooner or later to organise their annulment and give him Will's address so she could get her clothes and other incidentals back. It was going to be a painful call; she was frightened of what his reaction may be. His last words weren't at all friendly; Emma was still hurting from them. Although they arose from anger, the calmness of his voice held deep-rooted spite. She was scared to face that again.

"Miss P? Is that you?"

A familiar, male voice made Emma freeze near the Cheerios and Rice Bubbles. She turned around to see Mike Chang and Tina Cohen-Chang smiling at her. Emma realised she wouldn't be able to hide around Lima for much longer.

"Hi guys, how are you? What are you doing out of class?" She asked politely.

Mike dug his hands into his skinny jeans, downcast. "Taking the rest of the day off. I'm having problems with my parents about my commitment to Glee and schoolwork and –"

Tina cut in, crossing her arms. "We thought it would be good to speak to the new guidance counsellor for some advice."

"Oh." Emma frowned, already knowing where this was leading.

"You know Coach Sylvester is the new guidance counsellor? Only now we have to call her Life Coach Sylvester. She said if I was having so much trouble with my parents I should put myself up for adoption. What sort of advice is that?" Mike huffed, kicking the shelving. Tina put a comforting arm around his waist.

"So, we're going back to my place for some time out then heading back for Glee club. It's absolutely ridiculous. Miss Pillsbury, can't you do something?" Tina jet black hair fell in front of her face as she cuddled into Mike's body.

"I really wish I could. I tried to get my job back this morning, but neither Coach Sylvester nor Principal Figgins would give in."

"Get your job back? Aren't you and Dr Howell going to Seattle anymore?" Tina asked, surprised. "Wait, weren't you supposed to be in Seattle already?"

"Um… sometimes you have to make a choice and do what's best for you. I've decided to stay in Lima, while Dr Howell has moved to Seattle. Uh…look, why don't I buy these few items and we'll have a talk about your parents, okay?"

Mike nodded. "That would be great, if you don't mind."

"My pleasure." Emma made her way to the front registers to pay for her groceries and met Mike and Tina outside. They walked with her to her vehicle.

"This is Mr Schue's car. I'd recognise it anywhere," Mike observed as he put the brown bags into the front seat. Tina twisted her hair around her finger, rocking on her black Converse shoes.

Emma squeezed her eyes shut. Mistake number one. "I'm staying with Mr Schuester for a few days until I find a place to live."

"Oh, how sweet of him, Miss P." Tina and Mike exchanged raised eyebrows. Sometimes adults weren't that great at hiding things.

"Yes. He's been very kind to me. Hop in the car, we'll go back to Mr Schuester's for a chat and then I'll take you back to school. Your parents will be contacted if they find out your gone."

Arriving at Will's apartment, Emma settled them in the lounge and listened to Mike's issues, offering her advice.

"Have you spoken to your parents about Glee club and its importance to you?"

"I've tried to. They've only started nagging on me since my grades have slipped a little. They think I spend too much time rehearsing and not enough studying. It's my only extra-curricular activity outside of seasonal sport. It gives me a break and helps me grow creatively."

"Okay. Well, how about this? You need to show them how much Glee club means to you. Would they consider coming to New York to watch you perform?"

"I could possibly convince mum, but dad…he's difficult."

"Yeah, Mr Chang is not one for the performing arts. He has his own ideas on Mike's future," Tina offered.

Emma clasped her hands in her lap, nodding. "Talk to your mum first. Express to her why it's imperative she comes along. Talk to her about your grades and see if you can reach a compromise. You're an intelligent, bright young man and as long as you study to keep your grade point average at a level that your parents will be happy about, I see no reason why they shouldn't allow you to do what your heart desires. After all, it is your future and you need to do what makes you happy."

"Just like your decision to stay in Lima." Mike tried to align the decisions he would have to make with Emma's own choices.

"Similar, I guess. I wish I had a pamphlet to give you, but they're all at school. Sorry."

"Miss Pillsbury, you're wonderful. Thank you so much. You've given me a lot to think about."

"I'm happy to help Mike. I'll take the two of you back to school now."

Stopping by the school once more, Emma let Mike and Tina out at the front entrance. "I have to pick Mr Schuester up after Glee club, so I might see you later."

"Alright, thanks again Miss P."

"Bye Miss Pillsbury," Tina waved.

Emma drove off, feeling good about helping Mike, but couldn't help the grey clouds that loomed over her, knowing that the right thing wasn't being done by the students. The school day was almost over; who knows how many other students were subjected to Sue's advice. Unfortunately it wasn't her problem to worry about, but it troubled her so.

Troubled was an understatement. In fact, everything today was driving Emma into the doldrums of darkness. She wanted to call Will just to hear his voice, to feel his love surround her as he gave her hope for a brighter tomorrow. As soon as she arrived home, she called his mobile. It wasn't long before she heard his pleasant voice on the other end of the phone.

"Hey sweetie, is everything okay?"

"As well as it can be. I miss you." Emma bit her lip; his concern made her warm inside.

"Miss you too. I've been thinking of you all day. It's been hard to walk past your office and not see your face looking back at me."

"Oh, Will."

"I should have fought harder for you."

"We did everything we could. I am rather concerned about what Sue is saying to the kids though. I ran into Mike and Tina today. Sue's advice to Mike wasn't exactly helpful."

Will sighed. "Why am I not surprised? Sometimes I wish Figgins had a backbone to stand up to her."

"Well… I really hope he sees the light soon. Even if he hires someone else, as long as the students' needs are looked after. Oh, some other news. I-I made an appointment to see a therapist tomorrow."

"You did? Oh Em, that's wonderful. I'm so proud of you for doing this. I truly am."

"I'm taking small steps and I feel good about it, but not sure if I can do this Will. I have such a long way to go. It seems impossible."

"Hey. You are Emma Pillsbury. You are amazing and can do anything. Let's see what happens tomorrow. Don't give up before you start. I'm not giving up on you, because I know you can beat this."

Those reassuring words were just what Emma needed. "Will…I love you."

"I love you more. I have to go, but I'll see you soon."

"Bye." Emma cuddled herself, smiling at how easily Will lifted her spirits. She pottered around in the kitchen, making a Greek salad and prepared the fish fillets for dinner. She would grill them once they were both home.

Feeling empowered from her talk with Will, Emma felt brave enough to dial Carl's number. It was time. She wanted to make amends and move on, to finally feel freedom from a marriage that wasn't really a marriage. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. Maybe Carl wasn't angry anymore.

"Well, Emma. What the hell do you want?"

No hello. Just a stiff voice on the other end of the phone. She wasn't expecting rudeness. Although, she should have prepared for it.

"I-I-I wanted to see how you were. And give you the address for where my boxes can be delivered."

"Huh. As if you give a damn. Gimme the address. I can't wait to get these boxes out of my house and my life."

Emma rattled off Will's address. There was a long pause. "I do care, Carl. I want what's best for you. I'm sorry it didn't work out between us, but you wouldn't have wanted us caught in a loveless marriage, would you?"

"Tell me something… have you screwed Schuester yet?"

"I-I beg your pardon?" A lump caught in Emma's throat.

"I bet you have. Can't have sex with your husband, yet get it on with a work colleague. Aren't you just the pristine person you make yourself out to be? Tell me, is he good in bed?"

Emma held her breath, the lump burning, bringing tears to her eyes. Carl knew exactly how to upset her. "You're being horrible. I just called to–"

"Am I? You embarrassed me. I've been humiliated and now have to explain to everyone at my new practice what happened." His anger was growing.

"I'm sorry, Carl, I truly am. I still want us to be friends. You're a good man."

"Yeah, well, not good enough it seems. We were supposed to start a new life together. You've screwed everything up. Schuester can deal with all your problems now. Good riddance I say. I got tired of dealing with your crap."

"You-you heartless, heart–oh god how could you be so mean?" Emma broke down. "Send me those papers and I'll sign them and be out of your life forever."

Carl sniggered. "Those annulment papers will be in the mail quicker than you can polish a grape. And we all know how long that takes you."

The line went dead.

Shaking, plagued with guilt and shame, Emma fell to her knees. Crumpling up into a ball, harrowing sobs of pain came from deep within her body. Come on Emma, you're stronger than this. Carl had taken the opportunity to beat her down and succeeded. She didn't feel strong. She felt more vulnerable than ever.

Emma decided then and there she wasn't going to tell Will about her conversation with Carl.

That would just be one more problem for Will to deal with.

Self-doubt dragged her under like a strong current. Maybe everything Carl said was true. What if… what if one day Will too grew tired of her 'crap'? What would she do? Emma refused to answer. Instead, she gripped pieces of hair with her hand and clenched her fists, trying to relieve herself of the pain she felt inside.

Her heart ached for Will. She needed to hear that comforting, patient voice, needed to feel his strong, muscular arms, needed to see the love and security in his eyes as he held her, keeping her safe from the harm of others. Emma wanted to find the solace she craved so badly.

Forcing herself to get off the floor, she made her way to the bathroom before her legs buckled underneath her. She lay on the bathroom mat, staring at the ceiling, gulping for air. Inhaling deeply, Emma tried to steady her cries and calm herself. She put the heels of her palms on her forehead and closed her eyes, struggling to forget the hateful words that flashed in her mind like a neon sign.

She felt grubby. She felt dirt and grime clinging to her body, covering her skin, making her scratch and rub and swipe at herself to remove every trace. Turning her head to the left, Emma snapped her eyes open, grasping the fact she was actually lying on the floor. All those germs, the dust, goodness knows what else was now sticking to her hair, her clothes, everything.

Emma had to get clean.

She scrambled to her feet, almost losing her footing and tore her clothes off, entered the shower and frantically turned the taps on. The water spat out of the showerhead like a bullet, beating down on her bare body. She forgot her shower cap, but that was the least of her worries. Grabbing the soap and a clean washer, she began at her feet, scrubbing at her skin until she was raw red. The guilt and shame and embarrassment – all of it that she had caused and faced – she had to remove from her body immediately. Eliminating the dirt just wasn't enough.

When she saw that she almost drew blood on her arm, Emma threw the washer at the wall and sobbed loudly, slinking down into the tub. Emma had never felt so low in her life. Everything was getting out of hand, and it scared her. Letting the water flow over her, she cried her heart out over her illness, her job, her soon to be annulled marriage and how she permitted everything to make her feel this way. Good people have bad, sometimes worse things happen to them, Emma. This wasn't the Emma that Emma was accustomed to. The old Emma wouldn't let anything like this defeat her.

Her cries began to taper off. She hiccupped, wiping her face. There was one song from her childhood that she'd always sing when things got rough. It was from her favourite movie, one that she watched until the videotape wore out. The little red-haired girl who sang of tomorrow struck a certain chord with a young Emma; no matter how bad things seemed to be, there was always hope that the next day would be better. She needed that hope.

The sun'll come out tomorrow

Bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow

There'll be sun

Speaking the first few lines shakily, Emma lightly chuckled; the words were ingrained within her, unable to be erased.

Just thinkin' about tomorrow

Clears away the cobwebs, and the sorrow

'Til there's none

Her lips formed a tiny smile. Tilting her head to the falling water, she scrunched her face. Emma let her mouth fill with water, pushing the liquid back up like a fountain.

When I'm stuck a day that's grey, and lonely,

I just stick out my chin and grin, and say

She found the inspiration to stand as her voice strengthened. She wrapped her arms around her body, hugging tightly.

The sun'll come out tomorrow

So you got to hang on 'til tomorrow

Come what may

Stretching her arms out horizontally to her sides, she belted out the last lyrics.

Tomorrow, tomorrow,

I love ya tomorrow

You're always a day away

It helped. The day's events were still hanging over her, but they weren't bearing down as bad as before. Stepping out of the shower, she took the time to look over her body and the red marks that stained her skin. They would be hard to hide from Will. He would definitely ask what happened if he saw them. And Emma wouldn't know what to say.

She put her dirty clothes in the clothes hamper and selected a floral dress and white long-sleeved cardigan to wear. Her forearm was aching, possibly bruised from her vigorous scrubbing. Rubbing a soothing moisturiser on her legs, it was the best she could do for the moment, hoping the redness would calm down now she was out of the heat from the shower.

Glee club would be almost over by now. Emma decided to take her car this time around. She didn't realise when she left Carl in a hurry after their fight that her car's interior smelt just like him. Emma would ban Will from even going near the cologne Carl bought. Too many broken memories.

She made a mental note to get her car cleaned as soon as possible.

Emma decided to wait in her car in the parking lot of McKinley High. She messaged Will letting him know she was waiting for him. He replied, asking her to come inside as they weren't quite finished yet. She looked at the message on her phone and hesitated, but agreed. Plus, she really didn't want to sit for too long in a car that still had traces of Carl.

Walking through hallways of the school was the last place she wanted to be. Her legs were now pinkish, like she had spent a couple extra hours in the sun. Timidly peering through the open door to the choir room, she spotted Will straight away, writing on the whiteboard, his back turned to the door. Will's sleeves were rolled up above his elbows, his dark-wash jeans fitting snugly on his behind. She looked on as he spoke to the teenagers, his body movements showing his enthusiasm and passion for a job he loved.

"Now, guys" Will put the cap on his marker and addressed the New Directions, "The lyrics in the verses have to express the feelings of hurt as well as the courage to move on from a lost love. We've got a great pop song thanks to Rachel, and we should be able to put that to music tomorrow after some fine-tuning of the words, but for now, let's break up into groups and brainstorm a bit more for the ballad."

"Mr Schue, can't we do something a little more… rock? I don't have this Mohawk because I sing cheesy '80s ballads," Puck grumbled.

"Noah, I'm really sorry your 'do' doesn't work with the judge's music genre choice. We have to do a ballad and believe it or not, we're at our strongest when we sing from our hearts. It's up to you guys as to the 'feel' of the song and –" Will stopped talking, his eyes catching a glimpse of a particular redhead at the door. The glee kids turned their view to where Mr Schue was looking. But no one was there.

In a split second, she disappeared.

"Uh, guys, just give me a minute. Start brainstorming…no arguments, okay?" Will sauntered to the hallway and found Emma leaning against the wall.

"Em, hi," he spoke quietly, taking her hand and kissing it. "We won't be much longer."

"Okay, I'll just wait out here," Emma nodded stoically.

He edged closer to her. "Why don't you come in and say hello?"

"I – I thought we were going to keep this a secret," she said, flicking her index finger between them.

"I have a feeling they already know," Will speculated. "They'll be happy to see you."

"I don't know, Will, I –"

"Trust me, these kids are like my family and they're yours too. They love you. And I'm sure it didn't take long for Mike and Tina to tell everyone who they saw today." He gave her a quick kiss on the lips.

Will entered the choir room solo. "Hey guys, can I interrupt you for just a second." The Glee club director clapped his hands and gained the group's attention. "I've brought a very special guest to Glee club rehearsal today. Please make her feel welcome."

He gestured to the entrance and a shy Emma stepped into the choir room. She wasn't expecting the sighs of happiness, the applause, the cheering or the wolf whistle. It was heartening. Emma made a beeline to Will and stood close to him, clasping her hands behind her back. Twelve grinning teenagers looked at the couple. They knew.

"You all remember Miss Pillsbury. She's decided to stay in Lima."

Rachel, her arm linked with Finn's, met Will's eyes and nodded, smiling enthusiastically. She got to her feet, clearing her throat and adjusting her dress. "Mr Schuester, on behalf of the New Directions and myself, we'd like to wish you and Miss Pillsbury all the best for your future together. And in saying that, I'd like to quote a line from one of my favourite Shakespearian plays, A Mid-Summer Night's Dream. 'The course of true love never did run smooth'." She sighed, a romantic look in her eyes, admiring how adorable they looked together. "And now that true love has finally prevailed, we all hope that it's smooth sailing from now on. Thank you." She returned to her seat, cuddling up to Finn.

Emma blushed, her eyes meeting the floor. She bit her lip, smiling.

"Yeah. We heard you were shacking up with Mr Schue. So, what happened to your hot dentist husband? Did you dump him Miss P?" Santana smugly enquired with her well-known Latina attitude.

"Santana. Not appropriate right now," Will scolded. Emma's eyes remained on the floor.

"Still… wanky." She sat back in her seat, crossing her legs.

"Enough Santana!" Will yelled.

"Gee, show some consideration," Quinn retaliated, flicking her hair off her shoulder.

"Bite me Blondie," came her sharp reply.

"Cool it ladies!" Mercedes cut in with her sassy diva tone, silencing the bickering teens. "It's good to see you Miss P. Are you going to be our guidance counsellor again?" She asked Emma politely,

"Uh…no. Maybe next year though," Emma said softly, not wanting to go any further.

"Damn." Artie shook his head. "Who am I going to have my weekly sessions with now?"

"You can talk to my bellybutton. Once I clean the lint out, Lady Navel is a great listener," offered Brittany.

"Uhh… thanks…" Artie raised an eyebrow and turned to Mike, who shrugged.

Will cleared his throat. "But, I do have some fantastic news. Em, uh, Miss Pillsbury, will be coming with us to Nationals, how about that?"

"Mr Schue, that's awesome," replied Finn, putting his arm around Rachel.

"Yeah, we always win when you're around Miss P; you're our good luck charm," Tina remarked.

"Well, I'm really looking forward to watching you all perform. I always do. You've got the passion the judges look for. And, a great teacher." She spoke the last sentence quietly and looked at Will. He smiled back, reaching for her hand, squeezing it. They locked eyes and for a moment, the room was completely silent. If the New Directions weren't aware of Will and Emma's blossoming relationship, they were now.

Puck coughed. "Is it just me or is it getting a little hot in here?"

Will and Emma broke their gaze immediately. "So, New York, yes!" Emma exclaimed nervously. "I'll – I'll be there."

"So can we go, or? I think I've seen enough teacher PDA for one day," Santana complained.

Ignoring Santana's comments, Will addressed the entire group. "Let's call it a day, okay? Don't forget you homework, and tomorrow, we work on the music and put our ballad together. And maybe some choreography if we have time. Alright guys, have a great evening."

The students picked up their book bags, chattering about Nationals, New York and Miss Pillsbury staying in Lima. Will waited for all of them to leave before giving Emma a hug and lingering kiss on the lips.

"See, it wasn't all bad."

"I can't believe we held hands in front of them. I'm a bit concerned we're sending the wrong message to these kids."

"Em, we're not doing anything illegal or immoral. We're not having an affair; you've broken up with Carl and –"

"Please don't say his name," she said abruptly, her arms aching.

"I'm sorry, sweetie. I didn't mean to upset you."

She massaged her face, trying to relieve whatever it was that made her snap. "You haven't. It's just been a long day and I want to go home."

He gave her another hug. "Sure. Let's go."

Will and Emma stepped into the hallway and locked up the choir room. He slung his messenger bag over his shoulder, putting his arm around Emma. Walking past Emma's old office, they were met by the last person they wanted to see before they left.

"Well, hello there, Schuester. I see you snuck your girlfriend in here for a post-rehearsal tryst."

"Sue, what do you want?" After this morning, he had no time for any of Sue's antics.

"Here." Sue pushed a metal object into Emma's hand.

"What's that, Em?" Will asked.

Emma gulped when she realised what it was. "The key to my office. The-the key to my office!" She held the key up to Will. "Does this – does this mean I can be a guidance counsellor again?"

"Yes Elmira. Although I'm not exactly sure how much counselling you actually get done with all that hand sanitising."

"Aw, Sue, you're all heart." Not even Sue's intentional forgetfulness of Emma's name, or her biting comments toward her OCD could upset her now. Emma reached for Will's hand, weaving their fingers together, holding on tight.

Will's spirit soared for Emma. But he had to know why Sue relented. "Why the change of heart, Sue?"

"I figured you'll need a shoulder to cry on when you come back from Nationals absolutely crushed by your opposition. Besides, the kids were getting on my nerves. Whiny babies. Every single one of them."

"I'm-I'm honestly shocked that you are standing aside for me, Sue. Thank you. It means a lot." Emma outstretched her arms to hug Sue, but she stopped her.

"Spare me your sentiment. Just do what you do best. And don't be late. I'll be watching."

Sue walked away, her sneakers squeaking on the floor. Emma turned to Will, making a silent cheer with her fists. She threw her hands up in the air, laughing, small tears of joy trickling down her face. Collecting Emma in his arms, Will spun her around in celebration. He caught a glimpse of elation in her eyes from this surprising twist of fate. Things were looking up. Emma turned to look at her office; her second home; one place where she was truly comfortable. She was back to where she wanted to be.

Will hugged her from behind, sliding his arms around her waist. He kissed her cheek. "Emma Pillsbury, welcome back to McKinley High."